Press Releases
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
16 March 2021
Whirly-Girls International Reveals 2022 Scholarship Recipients
Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund Inc., a non-profit, educational, and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in the helicopter aviation industry, has announced the recipients of the 2022 Whirly-GirlsScholarship Awards. The scholarships were awarded March 6, 2022 at thE Whirly-Girls Annual Awards Banquet during HAI HELI-EXPO in Dallas, Texas. Thanks to the support of aviation leaders, 18 scholarships were bestowed upon deserving female aviators, with a total value of over $100,000. This is the largest scholarship program in the helicopter industry.
Recipients of the 2022 Whirly-Girls scholarships are:
- Airbus Inadvertent Instrument Meteorological Conditions Training Scholarship
- Mariah Dugan, WG #2230
- Amory Harris, WG #2244
- Bristow Group Initial Helicopter Training
- Diana Arias
- Edward M. Thurn Memorial Scholarship
- Hannah Santamaria, WG #2147
- Erickson & Volo Mission Vertical Reference/External Load Scholarship
- Dierdre Ratigan, WG #1976
- FlightSafety International Bell 206/407 Initial Flight Training Scholarship
- Leah Murphy, WG #1956
- Garmin GTN & G500/600 Course Scholarship
- Cecily Olsen, WG #2234
- Lora Trout, WG #2101
- Garmin GTN Essentials 2.0 eLearning Course Scholarship
- Lora Trout, WG #2101
- Garmin G1000H NXi Fundamentals eLearning Course Scholarship
- Lora Trout, WG #2101
- Garmin G1000H NXi Advanced-IFR eLearning Course Scholarship
- Lora Trout, WG #2101
- Krista Holstrom Memorial Flight Training Scholarship
- Michelle Lambert, WG#2236
- Leading Edge Flight Academy and Central Oregon Community College Helicopter Instrument Rating Scholarship
- Rebecca Torres, WG #2078
- Robinson Helicopter R22/R44 Safety Course Scholarship
- Sarah Trask, WG #2251
- Robinson Helicopter R66 Safety Course Scholarship
- Lora Trout, WG #2101
- Survival Systems USA Aircraft Ditching Course Scholarship
- Deirdre Ratigan WG #1976
- Whirly-Girls Initial or Add-On Helicopter Flight Training Scholarship
- Elizabeth Leidenheimer
- Whirly-Girls Jean Tinsley Memorial HELI-EXPO Scholarship
- Courtney Guinan, WG #2222
“Women hold only 6% of the pilot certificates issued in the aviation industry. The generous support of our sponsors shows their commitment to expanding the place female aviators have in the Helicopter community,”
said Kim Barwick, the VP of Scholarships for the Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund. “These scholarships are our way of encouraging these exceptional women to achieve their goals and grow into future leaders in the industry.”
Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund was incorporated to oversee and administer the scholarship funds raised by the Whirly-Girls and their Associates. Incorporated in 1974, the scholarship program has grown from a single $500 scholarship to a wide range of training and development scholarships valued today in excess of $100,000.
Whirly-Girls International is a non-profit, educational and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in helicopter aviation. It was founded in 1955 and currently has over 2,200 members representing 47 countries. Its goals include the promotion of women in the helicopter industry through scholarship awards, mentoring, public appearances, press releases, magazine articles and informational displays in aviation museums; the exchange of information among women in helicopter aviation; and the promotion of community acceptance of rotorcraft through increasing public awareness of rotorcraft utility and versatility.
For more information on Whirly-Girls International, please visit www.whirlygirls.org.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
30 September 2021
Bristow Group Adds Initial Helicopter Training Scholarship to Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund for 2022
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund has announced an additional $5,000 scholarship to be awarded to a female starting in the helicopter aviation industry. The additional scholarship is available due to the commitment of the Bristow Group to support advancing the careers of the international organization’s members.
The Whirly-Girls organization is an international organization of over 2,100 female helicopter pilots in 47 countries. Bristow Group recognizes the importance women contribute to aviation and thus has partnered with Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. to assist women aviators in their career development. Bristow Group is offering a $5,000 scholarship to female Whirly-Girls associate members to assist in the completion of their initial Helicopter Pilot Certificate.
“We are incredibly appreciative of industry leaders like Bristow Group for supporting our mission of advancing women in helicopter aviation through our scholarship program.” Said Joni Schultz, President of the Whirly-Girls
organization.
Bristow Group is a civilian helicopter transport company to worldwide offshore energy industries and is a leader in search and rescue services.
“Promoting the careers for women in aviation is one of our top priorities, and we are proud to be affiliated with The Whirly-Girls organization to ensure deserving candidates are nominated and selected for flight school,” said Mary Wersebe, Bristow Senior Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer. “Although women have been involved in aviation from its earliest days, women pilots, for example, represent only six percent of the total pilot population. Helping to cover the cost of flight school is a good first step to ensuring more women pursue aviation careers and to change this balance to be more reflective of society today.”
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, educational, and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in helicopter aviation.
For more information about all Whirly-Girls scholarships offered, please visit www.whirlygirls.org or contact Kim Barwick at scholarships@whirlygirls.org. Applications for this scholarship close October 10, 2021.
About Bristow Group Inc.
Bristow Group Inc. is the leading global provider of innovative and sustainable vertical flight solutions. Bristow primarily provides aviation services to a broad base of major integrated, national and independent offshore energy companies. Bristow provides commercial search and rescue (SAR) services in several countries and public sector SAR services in the United Kingdom (U.K.) on behalf of the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA). Additionally, the Company offers ad hoc helicopter and fixed wing
transportation services. Bristow currently has customers in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Guyana, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Norway, Spain, Suriname, Trinidad, the U.K. and the U.S. To learn more, visit our website at www.bristowgroup.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2 September 2021
Whirly-Girls Open 2022 Scholarship Season
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. is proud to announce the opening of the 2022 scholarship season. Deserving female aviators can apply for over $100,000 of helicopter flight training and educational scholarships. These scholarships advance the helicopter industry by strengthening the talent pool and increasing diversity. Applications are due October 3, 2021.
This year, scholarship sponsors include Airbus, Erickson & Volo Mission, FlightSafety International, Garmin, Leading Edge Flight Academy, Central Oregon Community College, Night Flight Concepts, Robinson Helicopter Company, Survival Systems USA, and many private individuals. Awards are available for both experienced and newly-certificated pilots, and examples include classes in turbine transition, software use, commercial flight training, and a helicopter rating.
Whirly-Girls Past-President, Alison Martin, stated, “When the original thirteen members of the Whirly-Girls founded this organization, they were the only female helicopter pilots in the world. They envisioned a place where female pilots could find support and camaraderie and help one another succeed. Today, our group has grown to over 2000 members but, despite this growth, females still comprise fewer than 6% of pilots. This cripples our industry, and our sponsors provide these career-building scholarships in an effort to advance women and aid the growth of aviation. Every female pilot owes it to herself to apply.”
Scholarship applications are available at www.whirlygirls.org/scholarships/ and are due October 3, 2021. Scholarships will be awarded in March at the Annual Whirly-Girls Awards Banquet at HAI HELI-EXPO in Dallas, TX. For more information, please visit www.whirlygirls.org.
Whirly-Girls International is a non-profit, educational, and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in the helicopter aviation industry. The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. (“WGSF”) was incorporated in 1974 to oversee and administer the scholarship funds raised by the Whirly-Girls and their auxiliaries, and is a federally tax exempt 501(c)(3) public charity. Initiated in 1968, the scholarship program has grown from a single $500 scholarship to a wide range of training and development
scholarships.
For more information on Whirly-Girls International and Whirly-Girls scholarships, please visit www.whirlygirls.org or contact Kim Barwick at scholarships@whirlygirls.org.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
1 September 2021
Garmin Mid-Year Scholarship Recipients
Whirly-Girls International is pleased to announce the six deserving recipients of the Garmin eLearning scholarships for 2021.
Garmin, long-time supporters of the Whirly-Girls, extended their support by offering eLearning courses to current Whirly-Girls International members. These scholarships provide the opportunity to complete the GTN Essentials 2.0 eLearning Course, G1000H NXi Fundamentals eLearning Course, or the G1000H NXi Advanced-IFR eLearning Course.
Garmin’s mission is to be an enduring company by creating superior products for automotive, aviation, marine, outdoor, and sports that are an essential part of our customers’ lives.
Our six scholarship recipients this year for the Garmin eLearning scholarships for 2021 are:
- Fallon Blattner (Garmin GTN Essentials 2.0 eLearning Course)
- Courtey Guinan (Garmin G1000H NXi Advanced IFR eLearning Course)
- Josilyn Lundquist (Garmin GTN Essentials 2.0 eLearning Course)
- Chelsea Montgomery (Garmin G1000H NXi Advanced IFR eLearning Course)
- Paola Sisconetto (Garmin G1000H NXi Fundamentals eLearning Course)
- Valerie Smith (Garmin GTN Essentials 2.0 eLearning Course)
“Garmin is pleased to continue its aviation training partnership with Whirly-Girls. It is always a pleasure having Whirly-Girls scholarship award winners in our instructor-led classes.” Says Jeff Hoing, Garmin Aviation Training Manager. “We have recently released two new G1000H, GTN, and TXi eLearning courses that we hope are as valuable to the Whirly-Girl members. Garmin looks forward to continuing to expand our partnership in the future.”
Whirly-Girls International is a non-profit, educational and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in helicopter aviation. It was founded in 1955 and currently has more than 2,100 members representing 47 countries. Its goals include the promotion of women in the helicopter industry through scholarship awards, mentoring, public appearances, press releases, magazine articles and informational displays in aviation museums; the exchange of information among women in helicopter aviation; and the promotion of community acceptance of rotorcraft through increasing public awareness of rotorcraft utility and versatility.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2 July 2021
Whirly-Girls International Announces Garmin Training Scholarships
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund Inc. today announced they will be offering fifteen new Garmin® eLearning Scholarships to deserving members of Whirly-Girls International in their mid-year scholarship round in 2021.
Garmin, long-time supporters of the Whirly-Girls, are offering these Scholarships to current Whirly-Girls International members. The scholarships provide the opportunity to complete the GTN Essentials 2.0 eLearning Course, G1000H NXi Fundamentals eLearning Course or the G1000H NXi Advanced-IFR eLearning Course.
The deadline for applications is August 1, 2021. There will be no application fee for this mid-year round of scholarships.
“Garmin is pleased to continue its aviation training partnership with the Whirly-Girls. It is always a pleasure having Whirly-Girls scholarship award winners in our instructor-led classes,” said Jeff Hoing, Garmin Aviation training manager. “We have recently released two new G1000H, GTN, and TXi eLearning courses that we hope provide additional value to Whirly-Girl members. Garmin looks forward to continuing to expand our partnership in the future.”
“We are grateful to Garmin for their generous support in allowing us to offer these Scholarships in addition to our normal annual scholarship opportunities,” said Kim Barwick, VP of Scholarships at Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund. “Garmin have been great supporters of the Whirly-Girls over the years, and this is another example of their commitment to women in the helicopter industry.”
About Whirly-Girls International
Whirly-Girls International is a non-profit, educational and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in helicopter aviation. It was founded in 1955 and currently has more than 2,100 members across 47 countries. Its goals include the promotion of women in the helicopter industry through scholarship awards, mentoring, public appearances, press releases, magazine articles and informational displays in aviation museums; the exchange of information among women in helicopter aviation; and the promotion of community acceptance of rotorcraft through increasing public awareness of rotorcraft utility and versatility.
For more information go to whirlygirls.org or contact Kim Barwick at scholarships@whirlygirls.org
About Garmin
Garmin’s mission is to be an enduring company by creating superior products for automotive, aviation, marine, outdoor, and sports that are an essential part of our customers’ lives. Garmin’s aviation business segment is a leading provider of solutions to OEM, aftermarket, military and government customers. Garmin’s portfolio includes navigation, communication, flight control, hazard avoidance, an expansive suite of ADS-B solutions and other products and services that are known for innovation, reliability, and value.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
25 February 2021
Whirly-Girls International Announces 2021 Scholarship Recipients
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund has announced the recipients of the 2021 Whirly-Girls Scholarship Awards. The scholarships will be awarded March 20, 2021 at the Whirly-Girls Virtual Awards Banquet. Thanks to the support of aviation leaders, 10 scholarships were bestowed upon 13 deserving female aviators, with a total value of over $90,000.
Recipients of the 2021 Whirly-Girls scholarships are:
- Deirdre Ratigan: Airbus IIMC Training Scholarship
- Hope Siebert: Airbus IIMC Training Scholarship
- Lechelle Dippenaar: Edward. M. Thurn Memorial Scholarship
- Tori Duke: Erickson & Volo Mission Vertical Reference/External Load Scholarship
- Christina Jorgensen: Garmin GTN & G500/600 Training Scholarships
- Catriona Adam: Garmin GTN & G500/600 Training Scholarships
- Erin Johnstone: James Wisecup Memorial Flight Training Scholarship
- Lora Trout: Robinson Helicopter R22/R44 Safety Course Scholarship
- Alex Ambros: Robinson Helicopter R66 Safety Course Scholarship
- Sara Stanford: Survival Systems USA Aircraft Ditching Course Scholarship
- Amy Ehn: Survival Systems USA Aircraft Ditching Course Scholarship
- Marissa Colclasure: Whirly-Girls Helicopter Add-On Flight Training Scholarship
- Rebecca Eyer: Leading Edge Flight Academy and Central Oregon Community College Helicopter Instrument Rating Scholarship
The Whirly-Girls extend their heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors for their support in these unprecedented times.
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund Inc., is a non-profit, educational, and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in the helicopter aviation industry. The organization was incorporated to oversee and administer the scholarship funds raised by the Whirly-Girls and their Associates. Incorporated in 1974, the scholarship program has grown from a single $500 scholarship to a wide range of training and development scholarships valued today in excess of $90,000.
For more information on Whirly-Girls International, please visit www.whirlygirls.org
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2020
to Support New Scholarship Opportunity for Members of Whirly-Girls International
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund Inc. today announced they will be offering a new Instrument Rating scholarship in conjunction with Leading Edge Flight Academy and Central Oregon Community College (COCC) to a deserving member of Whirly-Girls International for 2021.
This scholarship provides the opportunity to receive a helicopter instrument rating training course. Leading Edge Flight Academy will provide 21 hours of flight training in the Robinson R44 and 30 hours of ground instruction. COCC will provide 14 hours of flight training in an Advanced Aviation Training Device (simulator). Training will take place in Bend, Oregon, USA and the course is valued at approximately $16,725.
“Together with our newest contributor, Leading Edge Flight Academy and COCC, we are pleased to offer an instrument rating scholarship in our program this year,” said Joni Schultz, President of Whirly-Girls International. “The training the recipient will receive is incredibly valuable, life-saving valuable. We appreciate the efforts of all parties responsible for making this opportunity possible. This scholarship adds great value in the 2021 scholarship program. To quote Helen Keller ‘Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.'”
“Leading Edge Flight Academy, in partnership with COCC, is very happy to announce the new Instrument Rating Scholarship. We are excited to be joining the list of Whirly-Girl contributors and help advance women pilots in the industry. The recipient will receive the required training for a helicopter instrument rating, gaining the invaluable skills necessary to become a better, safer pilot. At Leading Edge, we instill our values of safety and professionalism with each student we graduate through a course; helping the aviation community grow, one success story at a time,” said Nicole Orlich, Director of Flight Operations for Leading Edge Flight Academy.
“Leading Edge Flight Academy’s commitment to safety and professionalism contributes an essential element to the Central Oregon Community College Aviation Program,” said Karl Baldessari, the Aviation Program Director at COCC. “The long-standing relationship between the two organizations strengthens all aspects of the programs to a point of national recognition. Through scholarships like this, Leading Edge continues to support college, and industry goals of equal access to an education of choice, and diversity in the workforce.”
All active members of Whirly-Girls International in good standing at the time of application who hold at least a private pilot certificate/license will be eligible to apply for the scholarship. Application details can be found atwhirlygirls.org/scholarship-offerings-and-requirements-scholarships
About Leading Edge Aviation For over a decade, Leading Edge Flight Academy has specialized in training helicopter pilots, airplane pilots, and launching aviation careers. Located in Bend, Oregon with 300+ days of sunshine for consistent, four-season flying, Leading Edge’s start-to-finish support and above industry standard training prepares you to meet your aviation goals. Their management team of pilots -– with over 37,000 cumulative hours and 100+ years in the industry -– knows what it takes to prepare you for a career in aviation.
About Central Oregon Community College Central Oregon Community College, the oldest two-year college in Oregon, provides comprehensive college services to the residents of its 10,000-square-mile district. The COCC Aviation Professional Pilot discipline provides students with the knowledge and skills required to enter the exciting world of professional aviation. COCC provides instruction in airplane, helicopter, and unmanned aerial systems in a small class setting with the close support of experienced instructors.
About Whirly-Girls International Whirly-Girls International is a non-profit, educational and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in helicopter aviation. It was founded in 1955 and currently has more than 2000 members representing 47 countries. Its goals include the promotion of women in the helicopter industry through scholarship awards, mentoring, public appearances, press releases, magazine articles, and informational displays in aviation museums; the exchange of information among women in helicopter aviation; and the promotion of community acceptance of rotorcraft through increasing public awareness of rotorcraft utility and versatility.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 3, 2020
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. is proud to announce the opening of the 2021 scholarship season. Deserving female aviators can apply for over $100,000 of helicopter flight training and educational scholarships. These scholarships advance the helicopter industry by strengthening the talent pool and increasing diversity. Applications are due October 12.
This year, scholarship sponsors include Airbus, Garmin, Robinson Helicopter Company, Survival Systems USA, Western Helicopters Inc., Erickson, Volo Mission, Leading Edge Flight Academy, Central Oregon Community College, FlightSafety International, and many private individuals. Awards are available for both experienced and newly-rated pilots, and examples include classes in vertical reference, safety training, software use, commercial flight training, a helicopter add-on rating, and new this year, an Instrument rating.
Scholarship applications are available at https://whirlygirls.org/scholarship-offerings-and-requirements-scholarships/ and are due October 12, 2020. Scholarships will be awarded in March at the Annual Whirly-Girls Awards Banquet at HAI HELI-EXPO in New Orleans, LA. Winners receive a stipend to attend. For more information, please visit www.whirlygirls.org.
Whirly-Girls International is a non-profit, educational, and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in the helicopter aviation industry. The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. (“WGSF”) was incorporated in 1974 to oversee and administer the scholarship funds raised by the Whirly-Girls and their auxiliaries, and is a federally tax exempt 501(c)(3) public charity. Initiated in 1968, the scholarship program has grown from a single $500 scholarship to a wide range of training and development scholarships.
For more information on Whirly-Girls International and Whirly-Girls scholarships, please visit www.whirlygirls.org or contact Kim Barwick at scholarships@whirlygirls.org.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 16, 2020

Jessica Kanellos is a Commercial, CFI/CFII helicopter pilot, mother of two boys, Pittsburgh native and driven advocate for women in helicopter aviation. Her former qualifications include completion of the Professional Pilot Program at (then) Bristow Academy, followed by a year of employment with Bristow as a CFI/CFII, Team Leader and Stage Check Pilot. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management, and her relevant experiences range from accounting and human resources to volunteering with the American Helicopter Museum. Her expertise also extends to multiple fundraising and sponsorship successes in favor of fulfilling that mission of the Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc.
Jessica joined the all-volunteer Board of Directors in the position of Secretary in 2014. She was able to put that drive to use and found great joy in giving her time and talents to the organization. As time progressed, so did her involvement on the Board. In an opportunity to grow the organizations’ outreach efforts in 2015, Jessica took on the task of creating a youth event, Give it a Whirl™. The outreach is dedicated to introducing kids to the world of helicopter aviation.
In 2017, Jessica moved into the role of Vice President of Membership. She has been dedicated to the Whirly-Girls’ mission of advancing women in helicopter aviation and is enthusiastic about committing more time to this organizational mission. She feels strongly about increasing funding opportunities for programs that directly support the membership as well as growing the overall outreach efforts of both the Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund and youth education efforts through Give it a Whirl™.
After an exhaustive search for the executive director candidate, the board of directors voted unanimously for Jessica to be offered the part-time position. On March 4, she accepted our offer and is honored to be chosen for the new role.
About Whirly-Girls International
Whirly-Girls International is a non-profit, educational and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in helicopter aviation. It was founded in 1955 and currently has more than 2,100 members representing 47 countries. Its goals include the promotion of women in the helicopter industry through scholarship awards, mentoring, public appearances, press releases, magazine articles and informational displays in aviation museums; the exchange of information among women in helicopter aviation; and the promotion of community acceptance of rotorcraft through increasing public awareness of rotorcraft utility and versatility.
For more information on Whirly-Girls International, please visit www.whirlygirls.org. Jessica may be reached at executivedirector@whirlygirls.org.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 26, 2020

Back row, left to right: WG#2112 Sara Stanford, WG#1869 Joanna Forrester, WG#1921 Samantha Challburg, Elissa Munguia, WG#1940 Bond Durham, WG#1829 Rebecca Pelassini, WG#2020 Catriona Adam, WG#1967 Allison Leinen.
Front row, left to right: WG#2042 Amber Forest, WG#2073 Rebekah Taylor, WG#1877 Melissa Shantz, WG#2015 Alexandra Ambros, WG#2078 Rebecca Torres, WG#2060 Ivana Doverspike, WG#1908 Melody Steele, WG#2048 Margaret Bunge, WG#1355 Michelle Hovey, WG#2088 Paola Sisconetto.
Whirly-Girls International, a non-profit, educational, and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in the helicopter aviation industry, has announced the recipients of the 2020 Whirly-Girls Scholarship Awards. The scholarships were awarded January 26, 2020 at the Whirly-Girls Annual Awards Banquet during HAI HELI-EXPO in Anaheim, California. Thanks to the support of aviation leaders, 23 scholarships were bestowed upon deserving female aviators, with a total value of over $135,000. This is the largest scholarship program in the helicopter industry.
Recipients of the 2020 Whirly-Girls scholarships are:
- Advanced Mountain Flight Training Scholarship Melissa Shantz WG #1877
- Airbus Inadvertent Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IIMC) Training Scholarship Michelle Hovey WG #1355 Taylor Hughes WG #2116
- CHC Safety & Quality Summit Scholarship Joanna Forrester WG #1869
- Edward. M. Thurn Memorial Scholarship Catriona Adam WG #2020
- Erickson & Volo Mission Vertical Reference/External Load Scholarship Samantha Challburg WG #1921
- FlightSafety International Bell 206/Bell 407 Scholarship Allison Leinen WG #1967
- Garmin GTN & G500/600 Training Scholarships Sara Stanford WG #2112 Ivana Doverspike WG #2060
- Night Flight Concepts Night Vision Goggles Initial Pilot Qualification Scholarship Rebecca Pelassini WG #1829
- Oregon Aero CRM/AMRM Instructor Training Scholarships Vera Aitzinger WG #2105 Paola Sisconetto WG #2088
- Robinson Helicopter R22/R44 Safety Course Scholarship Margaret Bunge WG #2048
- Robinson Helicopter R66 Safety Course Scholarship Bond Durham WG #1940
- Rotorcraft Pro Magazine/HeliSuccess Career Development Seminar Scholarship Rebekah Taylor WG #2073 Amber Forest WG #2042
- Southern Utah University (SUU) Fueling the Future Scholarship for Initial Flight Training Cydney Rallo Elissa Munguia
- Survival Systems USA Aircraft Ditching Course Scholarship Rebecca Torres WG #2078 Melody Steel WG #1908
- Whirly-Girls Helicopter Add-on Flight Training Scholarship Summer Papple
- Whirly-Girls Jean Tinsley Memorial HELI-EXPO Scholarship Alexandra Ambros WG #2053
- Whirly-Girls Memorial Flight Training Scholarship Bailey Spraggs WG #2118
“This is an exciting group of women who are going to become agents of change and innovation in the helicopter industry. With women holding fewer than 6% of pilot certificates, there is a massive missed opportunity of talent and diversity of thought,” said Alison Martin, Whirly-Girls President. “Thanks to our generous sponsors, we have the means to help advance the industry through the mentorship and empowerment of female aviators. We are excited to support our recipients throughout their careers and stand alongside them as they forge new paths in the years to come.”
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. (“WGSF”) was incorporated to oversee and administer the scholarship funds raised by the Whirly-Girls and their Associates. Initiated in 1968, the scholarship program has grown from a single $500 scholarship to a wide range of training and development scholarships valued today in excess of $135,000.
For more information on Whirly-Girls International, please visit www.whirlygirls.org.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 7, 2019
DALLAS – CHC Group today announced that they will provide a scholarship to a deserving member of Whirly-Girls International for the 2020 CHC Safety and Quality Summit. One recipient from the organization will join more than 500 professionals at one of the aviation industry’s premiere safety events.
“The annual CHC Safety Summit is an influential event for our industry,” said Alison Martin, President of Whirly-Girls International. “Providing a deserving female aviator with the opportunity to attend and collaborate with other helicopter professionals about building a robust safety environment will broaden everyone’s perspectives and continue the push forward in our joint efforts to further the security of our pilots and friends.”
The scholarship package includes the conference attendance fee, flights, accommodations, meals and access to a two-day HFACS course that will be held around the main conference. The 16th annual summit will take place in Dallas from September 15-17, 2020. More information can be found at www.chcsafetyqualitysummit.com.
“We are pleased to continue our relationship with Whirly-Girls International to provide another deserving female aviator a chance to be part of the 2020 Summit,” said Duncan Trapp, Vice President of Safety and Quality at CHC Helicopter. “The success of this event is built on a range of perspectives and experiences from our participants, and we are happy to help offer access to aviators who might otherwise be unable to attend.”
All active members of Whirly-Girls in good standing at the time of application will be eligible to apply for the scholarship. Application details are available to members at www.whirlygirls.org/scholarship-offerings-and-requirements-scholarships/.
About CHC
For more than 70 years, CHC Helicopter has provided safe, reliable, cost-effective helicopter service in some of the most remote and challenging environments around the world. With extensive experience transporting customers in the oil and gas industry, supporting search-and-rescue and EMS contracts, and providing maintenance, repair and overhaul services, our dedication to safety and reputation for quality and innovation help our customers reach beyond what they thought possible. Visit www.chcheli.com for information.
About Whirly-Girls International
Whirly-Girls International is a non-profit, educational and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in helicopter aviation. It was founded in 1955 and currently has more than 2,100 members representing 47 countries. Its goals include the Promotion of women in the helicopter industry through scholarship awards, mentoring, public appearances, press releases, magazine articles and informational displays in aviation museums; the exchange of information among women in helicopter aviation; and the promotion of community acceptance of rotorcraft through increasing public awareness of rotorcraft utility and versatility.
MEDIA/MORE INFORMATION Brian Bianco Senior Manager, Global Communications CHC Helicopter 1 214.262.7426 Communications@chcheli.com
For more information on Whirly-Girls International and Whirly-Girls scholarships, please visit www.whirlygirls.org or contact Kim Barwick at scholarships@whirlygirls.org.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 31, 2019
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. is proud to announce the opening of the 2020 scholarship season. Deserving female aviators can apply for over $180,000 of helicopter flight training and educational scholarships. These scholarships advance the helicopter industry by strengthening the talent pool and increasing diversity. Applications are due September 1.
This year, scholarship sponsors include Airbus, CHC, Erickson & Volo Mission, FlightSafety International, Garmin, Oregon Aero, Night Flight Concepts, Robinson Helicopter Company, Rotorcraft Pro Magazine, Southern Utah University, Survival Systems USA, Western Helicopters Inc., and many private individuals. Awards are available for both experienced and newly-minted pilots and examples include classes in turbine transition, software use, commercial flight training, and a helicopter add-on rating.
Whirly Girls President, Alison Martin, stated, “When the original thirteen members of the Whirly-Girls founded this organization, they were the only female helicopter pilots in the world. They envisioned a place where female pilots could find support and camaraderie and help one another succeed. Today, our group has grown to over 2000 members but, despite this growth, females still comprise fewer than 6% of pilots. This cripples our industry, and our sponsors provide these career-building scholarships in an effort to advance women and aid the growth of aviation. Every female pilot owes it to herself to apply.”
Scholarship applications are available at www.whirlygirls.org/scholarships/apply-now and are due September 1, 2019. Scholarships will be awarded in January at the Annual Whirly-Girls Awards Banquet at HAI HELI-EXPO in Anaheim, CA. Winners receive a stipend to attend. For more information, please visit www.whirlygirls.org.
Whirly-Girls International is a non-profit, educational, and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in the helicopter aviation industry. The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. (“WGSF”) was incorporated in 1974 to oversee and administer the scholarship funds raised by the Whirly-Girls and their auxiliaries, and is a federally tax exempt 501(c)(3) public charity. Initiated in 1968, the scholarship program has grown from a single $500 scholarship to a wide range of training and development scholarships.
For more information on Whirly-Girls International and Whirly-Girls scholarships, please visit www.whirlygirls.org or contact Kim Barwick at scholarships@whirlygirls.org.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 6, 2019; Updated September 6, 2023
Whirly-Girls International, a non-profit, educational, and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in the helicopter aviation industry, has announced the recipients of the 2019 Whirly-Girls Scholarship Awards. The scholarships were awarded March 3, 2019 at the Whirly-Girls Annual Awards Banquet during HAI HELI-EXPO in Atlanta, Georgia. Thanks to the support of aviation leaders, 24 scholarships were bestowed upon deserving female aviators, with a total value of over $235,000. This is the largest scholarship program in the helicopter industry.
Recipients of the 2019 Whirly-Girls scholarships are:
- Holley Gardel: Airbus Flight Training Scholarship
- Brianna Ludden: FlightSafety International Bell 206 Scholarship
- Autumn Cabaniss: Night Flight Concepts NVG Initial Qualification Scholarship
- Pamela Garrity: Erickson Vertical Reference/External Load Scholarship
- Cara Brainard: Robinson Helicopter R66 Safety Course Scholarship
- Nicole George: Robinson Helicopter R22/R44 Safety Course Scholarship
- Lorena Knapp: Oregon Aero CRM/AMRM Instructor Training Scholarships
- Catriona Adam, Yasmina Platt, Suzireez Viljeon: Survival Systems USA Aircraft Ditching Course Scholarships
- Susanne Batesko, Kelly Keane: Garmin GTN & G500/600 Training Scholarships
- Ronnie Bogart: Advanced Mountain Flight Training Scholarship
- Renate Buchner, Margaret Bunge, Ivana Doverspike, Amy Ehn, Summerleigh Martin, Savanna Paulson: SUU Fueling the Future Flight Training Scholarship
- Krista Holstrom: Thurn-Herr Annual Advanced Flight Training Scholarship
- Tosha Cypher: Whirly-Girls Jean Tinsley Memorial HELI-EXPO Scholarship
- Joanna Forrester: Whirly-Girls Memorial Flight Training Scholarship
- Sara Mazzarella: Whirly-Girls Helicopter Add-on Flight Training Scholarship
“This is an exciting group of women who are going to become agents of change and innovation in the helicopter industry. With women holding fewer than 6% of pilot certificates, there is a massive missed opportunity of talent and diversity of thought.” said Alison Martin, Whirly-Girls President “Thanks to our generous sponsors, we have the means to help advance the industry through the mentorship and empowerment of female aviators. We are excited to support our recipients throughout their careers and stand alongside them as they forge new paths in the years to come.”
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. (“WGSF”) was incorporated to oversee and administer the scholarship funds raised by the Whirly-Girls and their Associates. Initiated in 1968, the scholarship program has grown from a single $500 scholarship to a wide range of training and development scholarships valued today in excess of $235,000.
For more information on Whirly-Girls International, please visit www.whirlygirls.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 20, 2018 UPDATED August 29, 2018
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. is proud to announce the opening of the 2019 scholarship season. Deserving female aviators can apply for over $100,000 of helicopter flight training and educational scholarships. These scholarships advance the helicopter industry by strengthening the talent pool and increasing diversity. Applications are due October 15.
This year, scholarship sponsors include Airbus, Erickson Inc., FlightSafety International, Garmin, Night Flight Concepts, Oregon Aero, Robinson Helicopter Company, Southern Utah University, Survival Systems USA, Western Helicopters Inc., and many private individuals. Awards are available for both experienced and newly-minted pilots and examples include classes in turbine transition, software use, commercial flight training, and a helicopter add-on rating.
Whirly Girls Vice President of Scholarships, Alison Martin, stated, “When the original thirteen members of the Whirly-Girls founded this organization, they were the only female helicopter pilots in the world. They envisioned a place where female pilots could find support and camaraderie and help one another succeed. Today, our group has grown to over 2000 members but, despite this growth, females still comprise fewer than 6% of pilots. This cripples our industry, and our sponsors provide these career-building scholarships in an effort to advance women and aid the growth of aviation. Every female pilot owes it to herself to apply.”
Scholarship applications are available at www.whirlygirls.org/scholarships/apply-now and are due October 15, 2018. Scholarships will be awarded in March at the Annual Whirly-Girls Awards Banquet at HAI HELI-EXPO in Atlanta, GA. Winners receive a stipend to attend. For more information, please visit www.whirlygirls.org.
Whirly-Girls International is a non-profit, educational, and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in the helicopter aviation industry. The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. (“WGSF”) was incorporated in 1974 to oversee and administer the scholarship funds raised by the Whirly-Girls and their auxiliaries, and is a federally tax exempt 501(c)(3) public charity. Initiated in 1968, the scholarship program has grown from a single $500 scholarship to a wide range of training and development scholarships.
For more information on Whirly-Girls International and Whirly-Girls scholarships, please visit www.whirlygirls.org or contact Alison Martin at scholarships@whirlygirls.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 24, 2018 UPDATED August 27, 2018
The helicopter industry is facing unprecedented pilot shortages with a predicted demand of over 7,000 pilots in the United States alone over the next 18 years. To combat these shortages, Southern Utah University (SUU) Aviation has allocated three $20,000 scholarships to Whirly-Girls International for female helicopter pilot students. This scholarship addition will add a significant dollar amount to the 2019 awards and will help to produce the largest scholarship program in the Whirly-Girls’ 63-year history.
“There’s no possible way for current aviation infrastructure to meet the global demand for helicopter pilots,” said Michael Mower, Executive Director of SUU Aviation and Chief Flight Instructor. “Our scholarship contribution to the Whirly-Girls program will help promote female helicopter pilots in an effort to resolve the pilot shortages the helicopter industry faces.”
SUU Aviation and the Whirly-Girls will each leverage their unique resources with the common goal of recruiting more female students to the rotor wing industry. Women comprise only 6% of pilots in the United States, and increasing that number is a necessary component of solving the country’s pilot shortage. These scholarships will provide aviation-minded women with the resources to attend helicopter flight school while also connecting them with the mentorship and camaraderie of the Whirly-Girls organization.
The scholarships will be offered for the commercial/instrument rotorcraft flight lab at SUU Aviation. Scholarship recipients will also receive airfare, hotels, and tickets to the 2019 HAI HELI-EXPO, an annual global helicopter conference where they will make connections with other industry professionals.
“The SUU Aviation program is a solid program for helicopter flight training,” explains Joni Schultz, President of Whirly-Girls International. “When we combine our strengths of mentoring with the possibilities provided by the SUU program, our ability to fuel the future of women in the helicopter industry grows immeasurably.” Scholarships such as these help to ease of the costs of helicopter flight training and provide a path to achieve a dream.
SUU Aviation offers training in rotor wing (helicopter) and fixed wing (airplane) aviation. The Professional Pilot Program offers certificates and ratings ranging from private pilot to certified flight instructor. Training takes place at the Cedar City Regional Airport in Utah.
Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. d/b/a Whirly-Girls International is a nonprofit, educational, and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in helicopter aviation. They provide mentorship, scholarship, and networking opportunities to over 2,050 members representing 49 countries.
Scholarship applications will be available in August and are due October 15. For more information, visit the Whirly-Girls website at www.whirlygirls.org or the SUU Aviation website at suu.edu/aviation.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 8, 2018
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. announces that six women have been chosen as recipients for the 2018 mid-year scholarships. Helicopter pilots Melissa Hanthorn, Samantha Hansen, Amy Hartt, Heather Dingman, Kelly Murphy, and Tosha Cypher each received a scholarship to attend one of three industry-leading conferences: The HeliSuccess Career Development Seminar, The CHC Safety & Quality Summit, or HAI HELI-EXPO. Attendees at these conferences have the opportunity to expand their knowledge, strengthen their networks, and increase aviation safety.
CHC Helicopter and Collective Magazine generously sponsored two scholarships to the 2018 CHC Safety & Quality Summit in Dallas, Texas this October. Independent judges chose Flight Instructor Samantha Hansen of Hawaii and Aviator Melissa Hanthorn of Missouri to receive these scholarships. Launched in 2004, the CHC Safety & Quality Summit is aimed at sharing education and best practices in aviation safety. Both women will also participate in a Human Factors Safety Course following the conference.
Pilot Amy Hartt of Washington, Instructor Heather Dingman of Alaska, and Instructor Kelly Murphy of New York will be attending the 2-day HeliSuccess Career Development Seminar and Job Fair in Las Vegas, Nevada in November. Their admission is sponsored by Rotorcraft Pro Media Network. The HeliSuccess conference provides lower-time pilots, or those in a transition stage in their career, the opportunity for learning and networking and gives them inside information that can provide a competitive edge in the helicopter industry hiring process. The HeliSuccess Job Fair, on the last day of the seminar, consistently results in the employment of dozens of helicopter pilots.
The fifth scholarship, The Whirly-Girls Jean Tinsley Memorial HELI-EXPO Scholarship, is awarded to Commercial Pilot Tosha Cypher of Alaska. Provided by the Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, the Jean Tinsley estate, and HAI, Ms. Cypher will be attending the 2019 HAI HELI-EXPO in Atlanta, Georgia where she will have access to all Whirly-Girls Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet activities and one HAI professional education class of her choice. This scholarship was founded in memory of Jean Tinsley, WG #118, who was a strong advocate of camaraderie and mentorship amongst female aviators.
Whirly-Girls Vice President of Scholarships, Alison Martin, explained, “Helping female aviators attend these conferences provides them with access to expertise and connections that may not be available in their current positions. This strengthens the entire industry by providing employers with a stronger talent pool and by increasing the diversity of commercial pilots.”
Whirly-Girls International is a non-profit, educational, and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in the helicopter aviation industry. For more information on Whirly-Girls International and Whirly-Girls scholarships, please visit www.whirlygirls.org or contact Alison Martin at scholarships@whirlygirls.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 15, 2018
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. announces that they are entering the last week of applications for the 2018 mid-year scholarship season. This mid-year scholarship cycle focuses on providing five women with the opportunity to strengthen their knowledge and network by attending one of three industry-leading conferences: The CHC Safety & Quality Summit, HeliSuccess Career Development Seminar, or HAI HELI-EXPO. These awards are suitable for female aviators at all career stages as well as those reentering the industry. Applications are due by May 21st.
For lower-time pilots or those in a transition phase of their career, Rotorcraft Pro Media Network is sponsoring admission for two deserving Whirly-Girls to attend the 2-day HeliSuccess Career Development Seminar and Job Fair in October, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. This conference provides an opportunity for learning and networking and the inside information obtained here can give them a competitive edge in the helicopter industry hiring process.
CHC and Collective Magazine are each generously offering an all-expenses paid scholarship to the 2018 CHC Safety & Quality Summit in Dallas, Texas this October. Launched in 2004, the CHC Safety & Quality Summit is aimed at sharing education and best practices in aviation safety. These scholarships include conference attendance fee, a 2-day HFACS course (taking place immediately before or after the summit), flight, accommodations, and meals. This conference is suitable for more experienced pilots or those with a strong interest in safety.
The fifth scholarship available is provided by the Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund and the Jean Tinsley estate. Jean Tinsley, WG #118, was a strong advocate of camaraderie and mentorship amongst female aviators. In commemoration of Jean’s love of meetings, also known as “hoverings,” one Whirly-Girl will receive an all-expenses paid trip to the Whirly-Girls Awards Banquet and Annual Meeting at the 2019 HAI HELI-EXPO in Atlanta, Georgia.
Whirly-Girls Vice President – Scholarships, Alison Martin, stated, “In the helicopter industry, knowledge and networking are key to career progression. Helping female aviators attend these conferences provides them with access to expertise and connections that may not be available in their current positions. This strengthens the talent pool of the entire industry and benefits everyone.”
Scholarship applications are available at www.whirlygirls.org and are due May 21, 2018.
Whirly-Girls International is a non-profit, educational, and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in the helicopter aviation industry. For more information on Whirly-Girls International and Whirly-Girls scholarships, please visit www.whirlygirls.org or contact Alison Martin at scholarships@whirlygirls.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE UPDATED May 1, 2018
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. is proud to announce the opening of the 2018 mid-year scholarship season. This mid-year scholarship cycle focuses on providing five women with the opportunity to strengthen their knowledge and network by attending one of three industry-leading conferences: The CHC Safety & Quality Summit, HeliSuccess Career Development Seminar, or HAI HELI-EXPO. These awards are suitable for female aviators at all career stages as well as those reentering the industry. The application deadline has been extended to May 21.
For lower-time pilots or those in a transition phase of their career, Rotorcraft Pro Media Network is sponsoring admission for two deserving Whirly-Girls to attend the 2-day HeliSuccess Career Development Seminar and Job Fair in October, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. This conference provides an opportunity for learning and networking and the inside information obtained here can give them a competitive edge in the helicopter industry hiring process.
CHC and Collective Magazine are each generously offering an all-expenses paid scholarship to the 2018 CHC Safety & Quality Summit in Dallas, Texas this October. Launched in 2004, the CHC Safety & Quality Summit is aimed at sharing education and best practices in aviation safety. These scholarships include conference attendance fee, a 2-day HFACS course (taking place immediately before or after the summit), flight, accommodations, and meals. This conference is suitable for more experienced pilots or those with a strong interest in safety.
The fifth scholarship available is provided by the Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund and the Jean Tinsley estate. Jean Tinsley, WG #118, was a strong advocate of camaraderie and mentorship amongst female aviators. In commemoration of Jean’s love of meetings, also known as “hoverings,” one Whirly-Girl will receive an all-expenses paid trip to the Whirly-Girls Awards Banquet and Annual Meeting at the 2019 HAI HELI-EXPO in Atlanta, Georgia.
Whirly-Girls Vice President – Scholarships, Alison Martin, stated, “In the helicopter industry, knowledge and networking are key to career progression. Without malice, women are still sometimes left on the outside of networking circles. Helping female aviators attend these conferences provides them with access to expertise and connections that may not be available in their current positions. This strengthens the talent pool of the entire industry and benefits everyone.”
Scholarship applications are available at www.whirlygirls.org and are due May 21, 2018.
Whirly-Girls International is a non-profit, educational, and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in the helicopter aviation industry. For more information on Whirly-Girls International and Whirly-Girls scholarships, please visit www.whirlygirls.org or contact Alison Martin at scholarships@whirlygirls.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 25, 2018
Whirly-Girls International, a non-profit, educational, and charitable organization dedicated to advancing women in the helicopter aviation industry, has announced the winners of the 2018 Whirly-Girls Scholarship Awards. The scholarships were awarded February 25 at the Whirly-Girls Annual Awards Banquet during HAI Heli-Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada. Thanks to the support of aviation leaders, 21 scholarships were bestowed upon deserving female aviators, the largest scholarship program in the helicopter industry.
Winners of the 2018 Whirly-Girls Scholarships are:
- Maria Metcalf: Airbus Flight Training Scholarship
- Michelle Payne: FlightSafety International Bell 206 Scholarship
- Esther Beckett: Night Flight Concepts NVG Initial Qualification Scholarship
- Anne Paya: Erickson Vertical Reference/External Load Scholarship
- Louise Nutter: Robinson Helicopter R66 Safety Course Scholarship
- Josilyn Lundquist: Robinson Helicopter R22/R44 Safety Course Scholarship
- Krista Holstrom and Samantha Hansen: ForeFlight Pro Plus Scholarships
- Chelsea Atwater, Julie Kelly, and Grace Wagner: Oregon Aero CRM/AMRM Instructor Training Scholarships
- Pamela Garrity and Alison Leinen: Survival Systems USA Aircraft Ditching Course Scholarships
- Julie Klein: Embry-Riddle Commercial Helicopter Pilot Ground School Course Scholarship
- Grace Wagner: Antipodean Aviation and Embry-Riddle Wire and Obstacle Environment Awareness Course Scholarship
- Michelle Hovey, Julie Kelly: Garmin GTN & G500/600 Training Scholarships
- Renate Buchner: Advanced Mountain Flight Training Scholarship
- Carrie Schwausch: Thurn Herr Annual Advanced Flight Training Scholarship
- Fallon Blattner: Whirly-Girls Memorial Flight Training Scholarship
- Andrea Garcia: Whirly-Girls Helicopter Add-on Flight Training Scholarship
“Women hold only 6% of pilot certificates. This represents missed opportunity in talent and diversity of thought for the helicopter industry,” said Alison Martin, Whirly-Girls Vice President of Scholarships. “With the help of our sponsors, we are providing mentorship and training that will result in great advancement for our aviation sector. These 19 women embody an exciting promise of future change and innovation.”
The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund, Inc. (“WGSF”) was incorporated to oversee and administer the scholarship funds raised by the Whirly-Girls and their Auxiliaries. Initiated in 1968, the scholarship program has grown from a single $500 scholarship to a wide range of training and development scholarships valued today in excess of $90,000.
For more information on Whirly-Girls International, please visit www.whirlygirls.org.